Top 10 natural sources of probiotics for a healthier digestive system

By Priyanka Deshpande

CNBC-TV18.com

Published May 28, 2024

World Digestive Health Day (WDHD) is celebrated globally every year on May 29th to raise awareness about digestive disorders and the importance of maintaining good digestive health.

Digestive health is a crucial aspect of overall wellness and one of the promising ways to improving digestive health naturally is through the use of probiotics. Take a look at some natural sources of probiotics.

Made by fermenting milk with lactic acid bacteria, curd, a staple in Indian households, improves digestion, boosts immunity, and helps in maintaining healthy gut flora.

1. Curd (Dahi)

Made by diluting curd with water and spices, buttermilk aids digestion, hydrates the body, and is an excellent source of probiotics.

2. Buttermilk (Chaas)

A popular North Indian yogurt-based beverage, lassi enhances digestion, provides relief from stomach bloating, and is rich in probiotics.

3. Lassi

Vegetables like carrots, cauliflower, and radish that are often pickled with vinegar, spices and left to ferment, supports digestive health, provides antioxidants, and is rich in gut-friendly bacteria.

4. Pickled Vegetables

Made from fermented rice and urad dal batter, idli, a South Indian staple, is easy to digest, rich in probiotics, and helps in maintaining a healthy digestive system.

5. Idli

Another South Indian favorite, dosa, a thin, crispy pancake made from fermented rice and lentil batter, contains beneficial bacteria from the fermentation process, promoting gut health.

6. Dosa

A traditional dish from Odisha, fermented rice is soaked overnight and consumed with curd or buttermilk. It cools the body, aids digestion, and is a natural probiotic source.

7. Fermented Rice (Pakhala)

Kombucha, a fermented tea with a slightly effervescent quality, improves digestion, boosts energy, and detoxifies the body.

8. Kombucha

A traditional North Indian fermented drink made from black carrots, mustard seeds, and water, Kanji is rich in probiotics, helps in digestion, and strengthens the immune system.

9. Kanji

Various vegetables and fruits are pickled with mustard oil and spices, and left to ferment. It supports gut health, enhances digestion, and provides beneficial bacteria.

10. Achar (Pickle)

Disclaimer: Suggestions are for informational purposes. Please consult a qualified nutritionist or doctor before incorporating dietary changes.

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